WR Riley Cooper's deal with Eagles seems like a good sign for Detroit Lions

11:27 AM,
Feb. 28, 2014

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When the Philadelphia Eagles signed Riley Cooper to a five-year contract extension Thursday, it took one of the top receivers off of the market but likely also ensured that the Lions - a team in need of major upgrades at the position - will be able to afford one of free agency's top pass catchers.

Cooper, coming off a career-best 47-catch season in which he averaged 17.8 yards per reception (tied for second-most in the league, with Calvin Johnson), would have been one of the best receivers available had he reached free agency March 11.